triggering

VERB

cause to happen

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bring about cause generate produce prompt provoke set off spark start

STRONG

activate elicit

WEAK

give rise to set in motion

Antonyms

STRONGEST

destroy end halt prevent stop

WEAK

block check

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Federal immigration agents targeted at least one business here, arresting more than 40 immigrant workers and triggering civil unrest as they carried out sweeps across Southern California.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026

That decision threatened the port’s operation, triggering alarm among cruise lines and county leaders, as well as criticism of the county for not stepping in earlier to prevent the sale of the land.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

The investment bank collapsed in 2008, triggering a global financial crisis.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

It has remained present in South America, and in recent years has moved northward, triggering alarm.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

Is it intensive food production that is the cause, triggering population growth and somehow leading to a complex society?

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond